May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act 1 Long Beach, California December 1, 1941 Eric reading newspaper Alice enters

Alice: Morning honey. Do you want more cream in your coffee? Eric: No, thanks. So, did you see the new propaganda poster on the telephone pole? I love how theyre so creative with portraying Hitler, and especially Tojo. That Jap next door looks just like him. Alice walks to poster Alice: (Sighs) I hate it when they put these posters up. Theyre very demeaning to the Japanese race. The Fujiyamas must feel uncomfortable when they see this. Eric places newspaper on table and makes eye-contact with Alice Eric: Well they get what they deserve. I read in August, President Roosevelt was negotiating with Japan to stop its invasions and get out of China, but nothing seemed to be

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

working. Just the month before that, Japan flooded into Cambodia and Thailand! Those Japs are nothing but power hungry people, along with Hitler. This is an example of why Im irritated with the Fujiyamas next door. Alice: How can you say that about them? They have been nothing but hospitable to us since we moved to this neighborhood. Mrs. Fujiyama still gives us those mangos that you enjoy. I havent heard you complain about that. Eric: I know, but Im still suspicious of their motives

here in California. Honestly, I dont trust any of them. Im even wondering if they might turn on us if the U.S. went to war with Japan. Alice: Well its not like the Fujiyamas are bad people, just a different race. Theyre Japanese-Americans. They are no different from you and me Americans. Eric: I beg to differ. Do I have slant-eyes? (says sarcastically) No, I obviously dont. So dont go saying that those Japs and I are the same. Alice: Eric! Enough already! What is with you? People shouldnt be prejudiced toward those innocent people. Just because theyre from Japan, it doesnt mean they cant be an American. America is a land of opportunities and a fresh

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

start. We shouldnt hold or stop the Japanese from a new life when they mean no harm. All they want is to have a successful life, like you and me. Eric: Hey, Im not the only one that feels this way. Since Japan joined the Axis, along with Germany and Italy, many people have felt on edge with the presence of Japanese. You never know when they might strike at us. Cmon Alice, do you feel 100% safe around them, especially since we live right next door to some? Alice: At first, I felt a bit uncomfortable since we weren't the same race, but once I got to know the Fujiyamas, I learned that they were very respectable people. You cant judge a book by its cover, Eric; you havent developed a relationship with even one Japanese person yet. Eric: Oh, I wonder why (says sarcastically) Alice: Why dont you start then? Eric: No, I refuse. Alice: Why do you have to be so stubborn? If youre trying to prove a point by refusing to befriend someone not of your race, you wont succeed.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Eric: I never said that I didnt like other races. I dont mind the Mexicans, Chinese, or Portuguese; their home country isnt trying to take over the world or be a threat to the U.S. Alice: You dont know that. Even if Japan did attack the U.S., what would it matter to the Japanese living here? They would have done nothing wrong. Eric: Nothing wrong? (says in shock) How can you just stand there and defend those people? If Japan ever attacked the U.S., the Japanese living here would be the first to blame. Alice: How is that? Theyre Americans, why would the government interrogate its own people? Eric: Well the U.S. wont see them as one of us, and I don't blame them. Who knows? They could be planning something right now and we wouldnt even know it. Alice: Stop assuming already. What if you were stereotyped because you were too pale? How would you feel? You know better than this, Eric; treat others the way that you want to be treated.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Eric: All I want to do is take precautions so we don't get hurt Alice. I love my life here in the United States; I'm not going to let a couple of Japs take it away from me. Alice: But who said they will, Eric? Its not like they're rebelling against other Americans. Practically all of the Japanese act as better Americans than we do. They exemplify respect, honor, and determination. These qualities aren't negative at all. They're not monsters; theyre people. Eric: I know theyre not monsters, right now at least. But they could become one in a matter of minutes. Alice, soon you have to be more realistic of what theyre capable of. Theyre very mysterious people. Knowing their kind, they probably dont show their real feelings outside of their homes. Alice: Why would they if everyone is always so hostile toward them? I dont blame them for being so bottled up. They show respect to those that treat them wrongly. That takes a lot of humility to not speak up or defend themselves. Eric: Watch Alice, youll see. I can just see turmoil ahead for the U.S., and I have a feeling in my gut that Japan has something to do with it Just watch.

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act II: Scene 1 Long Beach, California December 7, 1941

Kirra: (running) Zach! Zach! Wait! Pearl Harbor was just bombed! Zach: Huh?! Ohhey Kirra. Wait, wheres Pearl Harbor? Kirra: Hello?! Grandpa and the whole family are fighting over how Grandpa wont let go of his Japanese pride. And then the radio went off saying that we were being attacked and about the military soldiers and all that. Now hurry up cause we need to get home! (Zach walks into house) Zach: Guys, I have toMika: -Hochido! Please! We are free here. Koji: Oto-san, please. Zach: Guys! I have toOji-san: No! My flag! Japan my pride. Kirra: Oji San! We are in America! Let go of the Japanese flag! Hey! Listen! Zachs enlisted in the army and if you havent noticed, the U.S. is currently being attacked at Pearl Harbor. Koji: Oto-san, I know it means a lot to you but that is Japan bombing Hawaii right now. Listen to the radio! (Spokesperson on radio recording)

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Radio: We are being attacked. Pearl Harbor in Hawaii has been bombed multiple times. All military soldiers or workers get ready to leave. I repeat all military soldiers, workers, or personnel to your positions. Pearl Harbor was just bombed. Zach: Just as the radio said, I have to go soon. Oji-san: Youyou shame me! You turn against your own country! Koji: Oto-san! Hes doing right thing! He wont shame us! Mika: No! You are not leaving this house! Too dangerous! Koji: He has to go. It goes along with enlisting in the army. Oji-san: Ichido, you shame me, you shame Japan. Koji: Oto-san! Zach: Listen! I have to leave, its my duty, but Oji-san, I really hope you find respect for me (Zach tumbles into uniform and comes out) Mika: Dontdont go Zach: Mom, its okay. Ill be fine. Its for a good reason. Im not going to combat. Relax. Im just enlisted. Mika: You know what they say? Ichido, combat always random, always dangerous. Zach: Trust me, ma, please. Oji-san: (grunt)

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Koji: No shame me. You work hard, you succeed. (Handshake) Kirra: So I guess Im in charge now. Make me proud Zach: (tease) Aww Kirra Sanso sweet. (Ariel grunts) But take care of mom, dad, and grandpa, alright? Kirra: Write to meA LOT! You are leaving me with these crazy people. Ill have no more sanity when you come backif you come back Zach: I know I will, I promise. You can do it. I got to go (Ogo-san and Kirra hug Ian) (Kojiand Oji-san shake Ians hand) (Zach leaves) Mika: IchidoIchido gone Kirra: Mom, its fine. Koji: Mika, he making us proud. Oji-san: (slams hands on table) You say making us proud! Japan all I have to be proud about! (Mika buries face in hands) Kirra: Oji-San! Leave your Japanese pride! Please! Look how happy we are here! Oji-san: Japan my pride. Always has been, always will be. Never change

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act II: Scene 2 Long Beach, California February 17, 1942

Kirra: Mom Im going to go check the mail. Mika: I will come with you. (Kirra and Mika walks out of scene) Kirra: Mom, Mom! We got mail from Zach! (Mika and Kirra is reading letter as walking inside) Dear Mom, Dad, Oji-san, and Kirra, I miss you guys so much its not even explainable. I cant yet tell you where I am, but lets just say its hot and not in California. Ridiculous things they are making us do. Hows the family? I hope you guys are okay. Oji-san, you stay healthy now! Ma, I am fine-dont worry. Pop, Im making you proud! Kirra, thanks for taking care of the family I got to go; its time for a looong day. Write back, ok? Love, Zach (Mika and Kirra is reading letter as walking inside) Mika: Why did he leave? Koji: Because hes doing the right thing. Oji-san: See?! He serve army, yet they making him do all the dirty work? Koji: At least hes not shaming us. Oji-san: He already shame me Koji: Enough! That is it! (Koji walks off on the other side of the stage) Kirra: Mom Its fine he said dont worry. Mika: My son at military! And you say dont worry?!

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Koji: Mika, Hes doing the right thing.

Mika: See?! Oto-san, all your fault! Koji: Me? No, not my fault. Mika: You, you support him! He going get hurt. Koji: His decision, not mine. Mika: You encourage him. You see the newspaper? Oji-san: I go make tea.(Ocha wo tsukuremasu. Kirra: Ill go too! Koji: Mika, you too worried! Mika: Koji! Japan just attacked the Philippines. One day after Pearl Harbor. Is that my Zach who going to fight? Koji: I dont think so. Mika, everything going to be alright. Mika: Frontline of newspaper say, Japanese Soldier Drafted for Combat. What you say about that? Koji: Mika, you know our son well. He doing right thing. Mika: II(sigh) Okay you right. (Kirra and Oji-san walk back in to scene) Kirra: Anyone want tea? (Kirra passes our tea) Oji-san: So what did I miss? Mika: Nanimonai (Nothing)

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act II: Scene 3 Long Beach, California February 19, 1942

2 days later Kirra: So, whats happening next? Koji: I dont know, Kirra Kirra: Are they going to take us? Oji-san: They are obviously going to imprison us. You see they call us Japs. We do nothing to U.S. Never. We are outcasts. Koji: Stop scaring her Oto-san. (Mika walks in) Mika: Well, pack up your stuff. I just got a flyer. Japanese residents are to be relocated to Manzanar internment camp. Oji-san: See? We going to prison. Koji: Enough Oto-son. Oji-san: well, we are. Kirra: Internment camp? Prison? Were going to prison?! Koji: See what you doing to Kirra? No, Kirra, not prison, just being relocated to a camp for a little while. So, lets start packing. We bring what we can carry. Kirra: How much time do we have? Mika:2 days Kirra: 2 days! Oji-san: Kirra, you have to pack and carry my items. I too old. Kirra: Aww. Man! Mom?

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Mika: Kirra, Oji-san to old! Please just do it.

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act III Long Beach, California August 15, 1942 Alice reading novel Eric enters

Eric: Mornin (while yawning). Make sure you go to the fish market today. I feel like eating salmon for dinner. Alice slaps book cover hastily and places it on table Alice: Well ever since the Japanese fishermen in the U.S. moved to the relocation camps, not many fish have been coming in. I'll try to look, but I doubt there will be any left. Eric walks toward pole Eric: Yeah, ok hey, (while chuckling) did you see this? The artists did a great job drawing up those slant-eyed Japs this time. Alice: Enough already, the posters are getting worse each month. Eric: Those Japs asked for it when they bombed Pearl Harbor.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Alice:

Well, President Roosevelt had no right to sign the

Executive Order 9066. He gave authority to the War Department to define military areas in the western states and to exclude from them anyone who might threaten the war effort. His precautions are violating their rights! Eric: Who wouldn't be uncomfortable with them? They have the face of the enemy! They need to be separated from the real Americans, like us. Alice: How are they any different from us? Japan bombed us; the people of Japan attacked the U.S. The Japanese in America didnt do this to us. Eric: Who knows? All our neighbors could have been playing us blind! They all could have been sending messages to submarines off shore or showing some faithfulness to their mother country. I'm glad that they're all gone; this is how its supposed to be - a Jap-free country. Alice: How can you say that? I know that deep down, you miss the presence of them. At least, the Fujiyamas! Its a ghost town ever since they left for the internment camps. You have to admit that without them, things aren't the same. Eric: How is that?

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Alice: The absence of many of the families changed how we lived too. Haven't you noticed how the weeds and grass haven't been cut in months (points to grass) since Mr. Fujiyama left? Every Sunday, he used to take the time to mow lawns, sidewalks, or anywhere the greenery got out of control. Now that he's gone, a jungle practically grew. Eric: Well, that isn't much. You really need to stop exaggerating. Alice: Exaggerating? (says angrily) Thousands of innocent Japanese-American citizens lost their homes, jobs, businesses, and rights for something they had no connection to. All I can possibly feel for them is sympathy; how can you just stand there and attack me for something I believe is morally right? Eric: I'm not attacking you, Alice; I'm wondering why you are so broken over this. They're just Japs, nothing more. Alice: Oh really? That's sort of difficult to do considering I witnessed the hardships of the families when they had to be relocated to the camps. Eric: What do you mean?

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Alice: They only had 48 hours to pack all their belongings in suitcases. Suitcases! Everything they ever owned, and if it couldn't fit, they had to either sell it or leave it behind. I had to see the broken China plates on the front

porch of the Wakatsukis. Due to lack of space in the car, Mrs. Wakatsuki wanted to sell her plates to see how much money she could make from it. Sadly, she broke them after because she refused to sell it to a cheap buyer. Eric: Wait, she actually broke her own China set? (says surprised) Alice: Yes, but the worst to me was the children. They were traumatized, Eric. Tears were streaming down their faces as they waved good-bye to the homes that they lived in their entire lives. They must have been thinking what they did for this to happen to them. You mean to still tell me that even the children deserved this? Just because the country that their ancestors came from attacked the U.S.? Eric: Well, no. I'm just saying. Alice: Saying what, Eric? (says frustrated) They didn't deserve this at all. They were, and still are, American citizens. Nothing can change that, Eric. Soon you and everyone else needs to accept that and disagree with the

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

relocation camps. Those camps are basically prisons with prisoners that didn't commit a crime. Eric: I understand what you're saying, but the government is just taking precautions. We don't want another incident with Japan or any other country again. Be honest Alice, do you really blame people for acting this way toward the Japanese? They have the face of the people that attacked us the eyes of the Emperor! You must have been a little afraid of them after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Alice: Yes, but I dealt with it and didn't let something like that linger within me. I realized that they didn't do any harm. Japan did. Also, it doesn't give the government the right to keep them locked up for this long. Eric: I'm sure they'll be released soon. Since many of the Japanese-Americans from Hawaii and some from the west coast were dismissed to join the army on January 12, they have been proving their loyalty to the U.S. army. Alice: I really hope it shows Eric They are such loyal and hard-working people. Hopefully the U.S. can see that they were American from the beginning, before Pearl Harbor.

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act IV Cat Island, Mississippi October 16, 1942

Soldiers get off boat Lieutenant Hood: Get off the boats grunts and get one thing straight, I dont trust you, not as much as I would trust a Nazi with a rifle pointed at my head. Now, you Japs have been selected to do a specialjob. Kalani: Watchoo mean? Lieutenant Hood: You have the face of the enemy. Stop talking and let me explain what youre here for. Zach and Kalani: Yes, sir! Lieutenant Hood: This place may be named Cat Island, however, there are no cats here. There are animals here that will soon become your worst nightmares. These animals are dogs. Not just any dogs, but U.S. Army war dogs who are here under the authority of the Quartermaster Corps. Kalani: Thats iro Hood: Your mission is to prepare them for use in war. You see, grunts, you all are here to represent the enemies the dogs will face in combat. Our objective here is to train these dogs to smell your Jap scent. Youre not the trainers. You grunts arent worthy to even be the trainers. Instead, you all are the bait. We are going to teach them to smell you, find you, and attack you. Kalani: (side comment) Dey should use you to train da dogs cuz dey could smell you from one mile away. Lieutenant Hood: walks slowly towards Zach What did you say? Zach: Nothing, sir.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Hood walks slowly away

Zach: Sir, I dont think you should call us that. The Japs are the enemy, not us. Lieutenant Hood: Well, such a big mouth for a little yellow man. There will be no back talk, understand? Zach: Yes, sir. Lieutenant Hood: (sigh) Now, you two will be assigned to Anderson and his dog, Rex. You grunts will not praise the dog in any way. Anderson walks in Zach and Kalani: Yes, sir. Lieutenant Hood: Good, now Anderson and I will discuss the directions of the mission. You two just stay quiet! Hood and Anderson have inaudible conversation on side of stage Kalani: (nudges Zach) Hey. Dat Lieutenant is pretty unfair, ah? Zach: (gives Kalani weird look) Kalani: (give Zach weird look then goes back into place) Watchoo lookin at me lih dat fo? Zach: Be quiet before the lieutenant hears you. Hood: Hey! I said dont talk! Zach and Kalani: Yes, sir! Anderson and Hood continue conversation Zach: I told you he was gonna hear us. Kalani: Sheesh. I guess you was right. (Side comment) Theres a first for everything. Zach: What did you say? Kalani: You heard what I said.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Zach: No need to get worked up. Kalani: Yeah. Youre right. Sorry. Zach: (Side comment) What could you expect from a Buddha head? Kalani: What Kotonk, you like scrap? Wanna hear the sound of your head go kotonk against the wall? Zach: Youre just asking for trouble now, arent you? Zach and Kalani get ready to fight Lieutenant Hood breaks up fight Hood: I told you, grunts to stay quiet! I was right about not trusting you Japs! Now, drop and give me twenty! Zach and Kalani: Yes, sir! Zach and Kalani drop and begin push ups Hood: I wanna see you licking your sweat off the ground and your arms trembling! Zach and Kalani finish push ups Lieutenant Hood: Its all yours, Anderson. Hood leaves the scene Anderson walks towards Zach and Kalani Zach: Hey, Rex. Anderson: Dont touch the dog. Zach: takes hand away Sorry. Anderson: Follow me. Walks to other side of stage Anderson: Whats your name? Zach: Zach.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Anderson: And yours? Kalani: Kalani. Anderson: Hes a war dog. Not a house dog. He listens to me and only me. Understood? Zach and Kalani: Yes, sir! Anderson: No need to call me sir, just Anderson. Anderson: Youre a good boy, Rex. And a lucky one at that. Zach: Whadaya mean? Anderson: I wasnt supposed to say this, but the military is training the dogs to be suicide dogs. They are dogs who have explosives attached to their necks. Theyre supposed to leap into foxholes and dugouts. Once they are in, the explosives are set off by radio. Zach and Kalani have shocked faces Kalani: The dogs are blown up? Anderson: Uh-huh. Brief pause Anderson pulls out meat Kalani: Wass dat? Anderson: Alligator meat. Its for the scent. Zach: For the scent? Anderson: Yup. Rex is going to pick up the smell of whats in that bag you have and hell want to eat it. However, youre not going to feed it to him. Not right away, anyway. You two are going to tie the meat to these pieces of strings. Rex and I will stay here for a while which will give you guys time to drag the meat into the forest and hidebut not too closego far away. Rex will find you then. Zach and Kalani: Okay. Brief pause

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Zach: Why dont you guys just do other missions with the dogs thats more sensible! This just doesnt make sense! You know hes only gonna find us because of the meat. Kalani: Dat dont mean he can tell a Japanese soldier from a white soldier. Anderson: Dont get worked up! According to Hood, you guys have a scent that Rex will be able to find. Zach: Thats not true. Anderson: What makes you say that? Kalani: You tink we smell diffrent from everyone else? Anderson: Idont know. Im just following orders. Zach: Whos orders? Anderson: President Roosevelt. Brief pause Kalani: I cant believe our president is issuing dis sick act. Zach: Our president. Anderson: Well, well just have to figure out if Roosevelt is right. Listen, there are a couple of gators on this island that can scare your hats off. You dont want to be near an angry gator. You will be in a load of trouble if you encounter one. One time my comrade got his arm bitten off. There are also venomous snakescottonmouths, water moccasins, and copperheads. Man, those snakes are annoying! Anderson: Anyways, make sure you check the ponds first if you ever cross one. You dont want to end up like my unfortunate friend. Now, both of you tie that meat to the strings and hide. Anderson walks off stage Zach and Kalani slowly walk to the other side of the stage Kalani: We not true souljahz. We jus bait.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Zach: Good job, genius. Kalani: Be quiet, Kotonk. Zach: Dont complain. If you complain, youll show youre weak, therefore, youll bring shame upon your family. Zach and Kalani stop walking Brief pause Kalani: Shikataganai. Brief pause Kalani: Well, lets go hide. Zach: Oh hey, I forgot to ask you, whats that belt for? Kalani: What kine Japanee you? Zach: Da kind that is very family oriented! Kalani: No do dat. Jusjus dont talk lih dat. Zach: Whwhatever. You didnt answer my question. What is the belt for? Kalani: Its a senninbari. Its on good luck charm from my mom. She made me two things as good luck charms. The senninbari was one of them. The other was an autographed flag. How come your mom neva give you one? Zach: Idont know. Whats so special about it other than your mom giving it to you? Kalani: My mom said it going protect me in combat. Zach: How would it do so? Do you really think it will protect you? Kalani: Geez, Kotonk! You ask so much questions its unbelievable! My mom said once she put da thousandth stitch on em, it gained some special power to help protect me from dangerous times in the war. And no. I dont really believe dat. I jus wearing em cuz my mom wen put so much

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

time into making it fo me. I respect her for devoting most of her to make it wen she got betta tings to do. Zach: She must REALLY want you back, huh? Kalani: (says with irritated look) Well of course! Dont your mom wanchoo back? Zach: Look, Buddhahead. This is the last thing I would want to be doing right now. Working with you plus being bait, OH JOY! Lets just go hide before Anderson and Rex come searching for us, okay? Kalani: (clenches fist) Fine. Kalani walks off stage Zach: (looks down and talks to family) Sorry guys. You were right. This is shameful. Kalani: (shouts from hiding spot) Ay, Kotonk! Cmon! You said dont keep Anderson waitin. Zach: (sighs) Imreallysorry guys. Zach walks off stage

May 5, 2011

[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act V: Scene 1

Manzanar Internment Camp, California April 21, 1942

Mika: Kirra! Kirra Kirra: (sigh) yes, mom?! Mika: Come help me. Dust is flying in through the windows. We need to cover up the holes. Kirra: Its freezing! Wheres dad? Mika: Go get Food for us. Kirra: Oh boy Whats our meal today? Dog food? (Koji Enter with Rice) Koji: Not exactly Kirra bring food to Oji-san. Kirra: Eww! What is this? Koji: Gohan (Rice) With butter, and maple syrup? (Kirra hands food to Oji-san) Oji-san: Nanikore! Get this food out of my face. You see where they put us?! I want to leave Manzanar Camp! Kirra: Oji-san? Are you okay? You look a little sick Koji: Oto-san? Are you okay? (Daishobu?) Oji-san: Yes, Yes. Leave me alone! (Coughs) Oji-san: (Coughs loud and hard) Kirra: Oji-san? Oji-san: I fine, I fine.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Act V: Scene 2 Manzanar Internment Camp, California June 4, 1942 2 years later (Mika and Kirra walk in with food) (Oji-san and Koji get really loud) Oji-san: My flag! (Tugging flag away from Koji) Koji: Let go! Oji-san: Never! Koji: Agh! (Flag rips) Oto-san please. Im sorry (Gomennasai). I just want you to let go of Japanese pride. That is it. Kirra: What is going on?! Oji-san: Your father breaks my one and only flag of Nippon! Koji: You are obsessive. We are modern people, not samurai. Oji-san: Yamato Damashii. I have spirit of samurai! We are Nippon! Koji: No. you are Nippon, we American. Mika: Shizukanishinasai! I can hear you from outside! Kirra: What are you guys arguing about? Koji: I broke his flag. (Koji and Oji-san say lines at same time) Oji-san: He broke my flag. Koji: I broke his flag. Kirra: Ugh! I am done with this I am leaving. I am going to write a letter to Zach now. (Koji and Oji-san say lines at same time) Oji-san: But But

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Koji: But But Mika: Enough its done. Kirra: ugh Figure it out guys please. (Koji, Oji-san, and Mika walk out of scene) (Kirra reads her letter to Zach) Kirra: Dear Zach, Its crazy here. Grandpa and Dad are fighting all the time now. Grandpas health is dwindling. This internment/relocation camp is creepy. Zach I am scared. What do I do? You probably dont have very much time on your hands, but stay safe. Love you, Kirra

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Act V: Scene 3 Manzanar Internment Camp,California June 20, 1942 (Family at table with food) (Mika walks with tea and food) Koji: You see the newspaper? Mika: What now? Koji: The Battle of Guadalcanal. Mika: You think Ichido-san going? Koji: Could be good chance, Mika. Remember, he doing right thing. He promised to come home and he will come home. Kirra: This is all news to me. Wheres Guadalcanal? Koji: Uh Pacific Ocean? Mika: Give me that, (Mika takes away newspaper) Mika: It is inSo-lomo-n Island. Kirra: You mean, Solomon Islands? I learned a little about it at the (Kirra hold up air quotes) School we have here. Pretty lame, but worth it. Mika: Yes, yes. Very good now Kirra. Eat. Oji-san: Mika whats, in this rice? (Coughing) Mika: Hochido, you okay? Koji: He been sick for while Oto-san? Oji-san: II not okay

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act V: Scene 4

Manazanar Interment Camp,California August 15, 1942 come first. Kirra: Did you ever think how hard it was for me to take lead of the family with Zach gone? And by the way, Zach came first. Not me. Mika: Did you think how hard it is for me to see my son leave? Do I like to live in camp? No! Kirra Im sorry, but please just help me. Me and dad love you very much. Now, come please. Kirra: Um Im gonna go and see if we got mail. Koji: Mika What now? Mika: Shouldnt I be asking you that? Kirra: Mom, dad. We got a flyer. It says, Everyone will be released in 1 week. You will be given fifteen dollars and transportation costs will be covered. You will have three days to leave. Koji: (sighs) The madness is done. Kirra: UmZach also wrote to us. Dear Mom, Dad, Oji-san, and Kirra, I have some not so good news. As the war grows, more people are needed for the war. Unfortunately I was one of them Us Japs are going into combat to Italy. Pop, I havent shamed you yet. The U.S. finally somewhat respects us. Im not sure how long it will take for this mission to be complete, but Ill be home, I promise. Miss you and love you. Love you, Zach Mika: (cries and buries face in hands)

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Kirra: (Sits down, traumatized) Koji: (Paces) Hes making us proud just as he said. Mika: Dear Ichido-san, Your father and I miss you very much. We are sorry for not writing to you earlier. I cannot explain what has happened. Oji-san has passed. He never let go of his Japanese pride. The Internment camp is okay. Cold and not the best, but dont worry about me. Me and father are very proud. You serve U.S. very well. You are a leader. Hope to see you soon. Combat dangerous, and remember always random. Ganbare. Love, Mom and Dad

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA] Act VI: Scene 1 Cat Island, Mississippi February 21, 1942

Zach and Kalani sail to Cat Island Zach: This is it. All the work just for this one test. Kalani: Suspenseful, aint it? Zach: Think about it, if the dog finds us, all of the discriminations against the Japanese will be right. Our entire race will be shamed. Kalani: Relax, da dogs not gon find us. Da haoles smell worse den us, remember? Zach: Yeah, but Rex already knows our scent, its like second nature to him. Kalani: Relax. You one real downer, ah? I guess there is some thoughts going around in your hollow head. Jus trus me. Everything gon be find. Zach: It better be, Buddhahead. Zach and Kalani land on Cat Island with Hood waiting on shore with other Caucasian test subjects Hood: Ah, gentlemen. (Says with grin) Todays the day we prove you Japs smell worse than us. Im here to observe these test results, and report it to President Roosevelt. Johnson is here to help us with this test. The dog will have three scents to follow, yours, yours, and yours. Rex will choose the Jap scent, because thats what he was trained to do. That will be proof of his particular ability. Now go hide because you Japs stink. Zach, Kalani, and Johnson walk off into the forest to hide Zach: This isnt fair. Rex already knows our scent, of course hes gonna find us.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Kalani: Yeah, the only thing thisll prove is that we trained with Rex more. Zach and Kalani find hiding spots next to Johnsons Kalani: So we jus wait here until Rex comes or something? Zach: Pretty much. Brief pause Kalani: LookKotoI mean Zach. Im sorry for wanting to pick a fight, calling you Kotonkeverything! Youre not like any of those other haoles. Zach Wow. That means a lot to me. Thanks. I apologize too Kalani. Im sorry for ev Zach gets interrupted by Rex barking Zach: Oh man. There goes our pride! The dog found us! Kalani: I guess you was right. Zach and Kalani stand up to see Rex by Johnson Anderson: (side comment) Good boy, Rex. You proved the Lieutenant wrong. You found the Caucasian soldier instead of the Japanese soldiers. Zach and Kalani sigh of relief Hood: Umm uh (clears throat) Lets call it a day. Go back to your cabins. Zach and Kalani are sitting down on the beach talking Zach: So, Kalani. What was it like when the bombing of Pearl Harbor happened? Kalani: Why you want to know, exactly? Zach: Because I want to know how it happened from someone who lived it. Kalani: Well, it was pretty scary I tell ya. Zach: Scary how?

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Kalani: Youre jus full of questions arent you? Well, it's a pretty wild story. It all started below deck of the USS Arizona. I was talking to some friends, relaxing. It was a Sunday. Suddenly, at around 7:55 am, the peace in the United States came to one end. The alarm went off, warning of an air raid. People were shouting, everybody was driving around ignoring the traffic lights. It felt like the world was comin to one end. It felt unbelievable. There were explosions everywhere! My family and I was lucky we never got hit by one bomb. I ran up da deck, and was greeted by machine gun fire, the horrible fires, and the smell of smoke that I will never forget. While I was trying fo dodge the bullets, I looked frantically for some weapon, for some way to fight those planes. I was trying to do my part, but...I was standing by the edge when I felt someone push me from behind. Whether it was for my own good or because they didnt trust me Ill never know. I fell into da water below, already choked wit da oil from the Arizona. I popped up from beneath the waves, spit the water I had in my mouth out, and tried to swim somewhere. Somewhere I could help. I was forced to watch, helplessly.. pauses as if he chokes up Kalani:..as that bomb dropped right on the USS Arizona, right between the gun turrets. I didnt know what to do, I didnt know what to do. I blamed myself fo not helping, fo not goin down wit dat ship wit honor. Sometime later, I wasn't keeping track of the time, I was pulled aboard one of the ships milling around Pearl Harbor. I was ready for my death. It neva come. Den one haole said to me, "Where did you come from? You filthy Jap, I bet you fell out of your plane didn't you?" Then I told the haole, No, actually I fell off my battleship. Da one I should be dead with. Then da army sergeant came alongMY army sergeant and told me, Youre a kamikaze? Of course you should be dead with it. But youre a filthy coward. Brief pause Zach: Kalani. You dont have to go on. I didnt know that it was so

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Kalani: No, its good fo me to talk about it. Kalani: Anyways, I responded to dat haole sergeant by saying, Sir, my battleship was da USS Arizona, and I was pushed off, and thats when his face lightened. And he apologized by saying. Oh. Well, umm, Im sorry about all of this. We should probably get you to Schofield. In dat rickety boat, we wen back to shore. I wen drag myself back to da road and we got in a car. I hated myself thee entire way to Schofield. Zach has apologetic look his face Zach: Wow. Kalani: Yeah. Zach: Dude, I didnt know you went through that much. Sorry. Kalani: You said that already. Zach: I know. Brief pause Zach: Kalani. Kalani: Yeah? Zach: I forgot to ask you something. Kalani: Yes? Zach: Whats a haole? Kalani: No worries, you pass. Zach: What? Kalani: Never mind. Zach: Here comes Anderson. What does he want? Anderson comes into scene Anderson: Zach. Kalani. Follow me.

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Kalani: Where we going? Anderson: Just follow me. Zach and Kalani: Okay? Anderson leads Zach and Kalani to location Zach: Now are you going to tell us where in the world we going? Anderson: To meet Lieutenant Hood. Kalani: Why? Brief pause Anderson: side comment I knew from the beginning that this wasnt gonna work. Pft alligator meat. What was Roosevelt thinking? Zach: What was that? Anderson: What was what? Kalani: What you just said. Brief pause Zach and Kalani look at each other with frustrated faces Hood: As you can see, the experiment has been terminated. With the dog not finding your Japanese scent, the experiment was a failure. Hood briefly pauses and looks down, then looks at Zach and Kalani Hood: For the past four months, Ive come to know you and I have something to say. I pegged you wrong, the two of you. You are not Japsyou are Americans, there is no one more worthy to bear the title than you two. Hood looks down at Zach and Kalanis wounded arms Hood: You both have shed blood and honor for this country already, and I couldnt find anyone more rightful to be

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

called a United States Army Soldier. It would be an honor to fight alongside of you two any day. Hood: To show that my respect is genuine, here are two purple hearts since you two were wounded by the dog.

Hood puts purple hearts on Zach and Kalanis uniforms Hood stands at attention and solutes. After Zach and Kalani stands at attention and solutes. Hood: Good job soldiers. Hood hears phone and picks up Kalani: Wow. To hear an apology from the bitter lieutenant just makes me shocked. Zach: Same here. What do you think comes next? Anderson: Well you guys know that we will have to leave the islands. Kalani: But where we going next? I still dont tink we going Europe to fight. Zach: Well well just have to wait and see. Brief pause Anderson: rubs back of his neck Zach. Kalani. Zach: Yeah? Anderson: I didnt really believe in this whole Japanese scent nonsense. Kalani: Den watchoo do um fo? Anderson: I told you. I was following orders. Look, Im sorry. For putting you through all of this. Im sorry that the dog had to attack both of you like that. Zach: Why didnt you tell the dog to stop then?

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[SHIKATAT GA NAI: A JAPANESE AMERICAN WWII DRAMA]

Anderson: I was too much in shock! I never thought that I would see that actually happen to you guys! Looking Rex bite off both of your skin was just too brutal for me to see. I am truly sorry. Kalani: You know you going see worse on the battle ground. So why get chicken skin when you see it happen to us now? Anderson: Thats exactly it! Because it was you guys. Zach and Kalani have shocked faces Anderson: Here comes Hood. Hood: We got good news, and bad news. Good news, as you all know we are done with the dogs, so all personal of Ship Island will clear the island in three days. Bad news, I just got word that we are going to Europe. You two are going to be sent to camp McCoy for further training. You boys will be joining the 100th infantry and 442nd division. Anderson, you will continue training with Rex for Europe. Boys this is it, were going to Europe. Everyone starts to walk off the stage except Zach Zach: Hey, Anderson! Anderson: Yes? Zach: I forgive you. Anderson nods Anderson: Cmon, soldier. Time to fight. Anderson walks away Zach nods then walks off stage